We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ernie Salcedo. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ernie below.
Ernie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
As an independent design studio, our mission is simple: Froge Studios is a statement of Culture and Expression. The meaning is deeply rooted in everything that motivates us, inspires us and ultimately defines us. Often times, in the early stages of my career, I’d notice the lack of cynosure in not only the companies I worked for but, most importantly, the people I worked with. I always sensed a notion of ambiguity and quick cash-grab opportunities that didn’t resonate with me. Yes, a business’ purpose is to generate profit, but in my experience it was never with a deeper aspiration other than “Yes! We’ll do it.” All this to say, I felt like I really wanted to have a higher purpose when starting my own business! Our two values, culture & expression, truly encompass everything from communication, conceptualizing, emotion, art, music, community, innovation, creativity and modernism. It is this guiding force that allows us to navigate our studio and help customers tell their story.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I got my start as a graphic designer through the marketing industry at a boutique agency. I learned the ins and outs of what it was like running the business and quickly became obsessed with the industry. I eventually transitioned into sports and live events and recently ventured out on my own. Through Froge Studios we provide clients with services ranging from art direction, video production, marketing campaigns and social media engagement, to name a few. Thus far, the proudest moment of my life has been being able to venture out on my own and claim independence to truly navigate the marketing industry with our two core values in mind: culture & expression. I believe our continuous focus on innovation allows our work to speak for itself, as we continue to find and establish our voice in our industry. We’re just getting started so keep your eyes peeled for future projects!
Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.
I think the phrase “side hustle” has become a buzzword in today’s climate. I used to think “Cool! If I can just hop on some quick trend, flip shoes, day trade, etc. I can make a killing on this side hustle thing.” Then I realized I wasn’t really passionate, much less interested, in any of those things. I was lucky enough to understand and take advantage of my day-to-day trade and convert that into a “side hustle” that ended up becoming my own business. All this to say, to anyone reading: pursue the thing that ignites you. That one thing you obsess about. That’s what will get you across the finish line 9 out of 10 times. A lot of these quick fads or schemes come and go, but if you’re truly passionate about something (excuse the cliche) you’ll find a way to turn that into a full time business or career.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
I’m grateful I was always surrounded by massive support, both from friends and family. I know that’s usually not the case with most, but I can’t imagine what the alternative had been otherwise. The true resilience, for me, has always been self confidence and persistence. Not that I’m any guru or expert in the matter, but anything you truly devote yourself towards will always pay off if you stick with it. Persistence and consistency, coupled with confidence and a pinch of good luck has been my “formula for success” throughout pretty much my entire career. There’s definitely been a lot of ups and downs in the 10+ years of design for me, either dealing with imposter syndrome, being fired from jobs because I “wasn’t good enough” (that guy blamed me for faking my portfolio!), to completely reprinting an entire shipment of magazines from a fatal print error on my behalf. But through it all, I never once thought “Hmm, maybe design isn’t for me.” I’ve always cared about my craft – since day one. And that has ALWAYS led me through the dark times.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://frogestudios.myportfolio.com/portfolio
- Instagram: @frogestudios
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FrogeStudios
- Twitter: _@Frogestudios